CIVIC chiefs have agreed permission for one of their fellow councillors to build a swimming pool in his back garden.

Cllr Kim Gottlieb submitted plans to develop an outbuilding with solar panels, a walled garden, a swimming pool and to extend the existing greenhouse at his home at Lovington Lane in Avington.

Before a vote was taken, the chairman, Cllr Laurence Ruffell, joked that a site visit was in order.

Cllr Frank Pearson said: “What happens within the walled gardens is going to stay within the walled gardens. I’ve not known many people object to a swimming pool; it could be good if there was a fire. I don’t see any reason why we shouldn’t follow the officer’s recommendations.”